Virginia Beach declares state of emergency after tornado

Officials estimate between 50 and 100 homes damaged by tornado that also downed trees and caused gas leaks

A popular coastal US tourist destination has declared a state of emergency after a tornado moved through the area on Sunday and damaged dozens of homes, downed trees and caused gas leaks.

Officials in the city of Virginia Beach, Virginia, said it was unclear how many homes had been damaged but they estimated between 50 and 100, after the tornado touched down just after 6pm, WTKR-TV reported.